BDC reissues request for Parkway Theatre project

Gus G. Sentementes, The Baltimore Sun

The Baltimore Development Corp. said Thursday it was reissuing a request for proposal to develop three properties, including the former Parkway Theatre, one of the most prominent landmarks in the city's Station North Arts and Entertainment District.

The BDC in 2009 confirmed a proposal for the Parkway Theatre project by Cormony Development and Seawall Development Co. But due to "changing conditions" over "considerable periods of time," the city chose to renew the RFP process, according to M.J. "Jay" Brodie, president of the BDC.

Samuel Polakoff, head of Cormony Development, said the BDC never told him and Seawall why it was no longer supporting them as developers. He said he learned a few weeks ago that the BDC would reissue the RFP.

"We'd like to have a better understanding of this ourselves," Polakoff said.

Brodie said he told Polakoff that the BDC was reviewing a number of projects across the city and that the Parkway Theatre project had never gotten off the ground.

"This is not a reflection on Mr. Polakoff or Seawall Development," Brodie said.

An official with Seawall could not be immediately reached for comment Thursday.

The city's goals in developing the properties, situated at the intersection of Charles Street and North Avenue, include revitalizing the theater for live performances and contributing to the Charles North neighborhood renewal plan. The proposal deadline is March 30.